Why a 2025 Refresh Makes Perfect Sense
Apple has settled into a three-year cadence for its budget-friendly smartwatch line—first-gen SE in 2020, SE 2 in 2022—so a September 2025 follow-up feels baked into the roadmap. Supply-chain analysts say Quanta and Luxshare have already secured second-half production slots, and new model numbers quietly appeared in an April Eurasian Economic Commission filing. Expect the SE 3 to share stage time with the iPhone 17 family, Watch Series 11, and Ultra 3 during Apple’s fall keynote.
Design & Display: Bigger, Brighter, Still Aluminum
Early whispers of a cost-cutting all-plastic chassis appear to be shelved after engineers reportedly balked at the “Fisher-Price” look and marginal savings. Instead, Apple is said to stick with recycled aluminum while shrinking bezels and bumping screen sizes to 1.6 in (41 mm case) and 1.8 in (45 mm). That’s the same viewing area as flagship models, just without the curved “edge-to-edge” glass. A brighter panel—around 1,200 nits peak—should improve outdoor legibility without sacrificing battery.
Under the Hood: S10 Silicon and On-Device Intelligence
The headline upgrade is an S10 system-in-package fabricated on TSMC’s 3-nm process. Compared with the S9, expect:
- ~20 % faster CPU and a beefier Neural Engine that unlocks on-device Siri queries even when the phone isn’t nearby.
- Better efficiency that extends battery life past the current 18-hour spec—Apple’s internal goal is a full 24-hour “active day” with Always-On Display toggled off.
- Second-gen Ultra-Wideband for Precision Find and CarKey hand-offs that work at double the range.
watchOS 26 layers new software tricks on top: AI-driven “Workout Buddy” coaching, generative watch faces, a built-in Notes app, and a one-handed wrist-flick gesture to dismiss notifications—features that should run smoothly on the S10 but will feel constrained on older chips.
Health & Safety: Sleep Apnea Detection Without Extra Sensors
Apple’s algorithms already flag possible atrial-fibrillation and crash events; this year’s big push is sleep apnea screening. By analyzing overnight breathing cadence and heart-rate variability, Watch SE 3 could recommend a formal diagnosis, aligning with Apple’s broader preventative-care narrative. Blood-oxygen readings remain in legal limbo after recent patent disputes, so the SE line is unlikely to regain SpO₂—leaving ECG and skin-temperature sensing to pricier siblings.
Battery, Charging & Connectivity
A denser cell plus 3-nm silicon should add roughly two hours of real-world life. Fast charging sticks around: about 45 minutes from zero to 80 %. Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi 6E join the spec sheet, bridging the gap with Apple’s premium watches.
Pricing Strategy: Holding the $249 Line—or Going Lower?
Apple has never wavered from the SE’s $249/$279 (small/large) bracket, but market pressure is intensifying. Samsung’s Galaxy Watch FE lands at $199, and Fitbit Versa 5 routinely sells for $170. Industry chatter points to three possible moves:
- Keep MSRP intact but bundle six months of Apple Fitness+.
- Drop entry price to $229 for the 41 mm Wi-Fi model.
- Introduce a kid-focused plastic “SE Kids” at $199 in 2026 and leave SE 3 pricing unchanged this year.
Whatever Apple decides, deals from carriers and big-box retailers will likely push the effective entry point even lower by the holiday season.
Rumored Spec Sheet at a Glance
| Category | Apple Watch SE (3rd Gen) rumored |
|---|---|
| Launch window | September 2025 |
| Case sizes | 41 mm / 45 mm aluminum |
| Display | 1.6 in / 1.8 in OLED, 1,200 nits peak |
| Processor | S10 SiP (3-nm) |
| Wireless | UWB 2, Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 6E |
| Battery | 24-hour goal, fast charge to 80 % in 45 min |
| Health | Sleep-apnea alerts, heart-rate, fall/crash detection |
| Not expected | ECG, skin-temp, blood-oxygen |
| Starting price | $249–279 (may shift) |
What to Watch Next
If Apple can deliver a larger display, on-device Siri, and sleep-apnea screening without nudging the price north of $279, the SE 3 could be the sleeper hit of the 2025 lineup—especially for first-time smartwatch buyers or families upgrading from an aging Series 4. All eyes now turn to Cupertino’s September keynote for the final word.
Apple Watch SE 1st Gen Breakdown
The Apple Watch SE 1st Gen offers a budget-friendly entry into Apple’s smartwatch ecosystem. Launched in 2020, it brings core features without the premium price tag. The Apple Watch SE 1st Gen provides essential health tracking, fitness monitoring, and smart notifications at a more accessible cost than its higher-end counterparts.
This smartwatch comes in two models: GPS and GPS + Cellular. The GPS version lets you track workouts and get notifications when paired with your iPhone. The Cellular model adds the ability to make calls, send texts, and use data independently of your phone. Both versions feature a Retina display, water resistance, and fall detection.
For those new to smartwatches or looking to upgrade from an older model, the Apple Watch SE 1st Gen strikes a balance between functionality and affordability. It runs on watchOS, giving you access to a wide range of apps and customizable watch faces. The device tracks various health metrics including heart rate, sleep, and activity levels.
| Feature | Apple Watch SE 1st Gen |
|---|---|
| Display | Retina OLED |
| Sizes | 40mm, 44mm |
| Chip | S5 SiP |
| Water Resistance | 50 meters |
| Battery Life | Up to 18 hours |
Design and Build
The Apple Watch SE 1st generation boasts a sleek design that balances style and functionality. Its aluminum case and customizable bands offer a mix of durability and personal expression.
Materials and Colors
The Apple Watch SE 1st gen features a lightweight aluminum case. You can choose from three elegant colors:
- Silver
- Space Gray
- Gold
These options let you match your watch to your personal style. The aluminum build provides durability without adding excess weight. This makes it comfortable for all-day wear.
Apple uses a blend of recycled aluminum in the case. This choice reflects their commitment to environmental responsibility. The watch pairs with various band types. These include:
- Sport Band
- Sport Loop
- Solo Loop
You can easily swap bands to suit different occasions or outfits.
Dimensions and Weight
The Apple Watch SE 1st gen comes in two sizes:
| Size | Case Height | Case Width | Case Depth | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40mm | 40mm | 34mm | 10.4mm | 30.5g |
| 44mm | 44mm | 38mm | 10.4mm | 36.4g |
These compact dimensions ensure the watch fits comfortably on most wrists. The 44mm option provides a larger display for easier reading. The 40mm suits those who prefer a more discreet look.
Despite its robust features, the watch remains lightweight. This makes it ideal for fitness tracking and everyday use.
Display Characteristics
The Apple Watch SE 1st gen features a Retina display with OLED technology. This provides crisp, vibrant visuals with deep blacks and bright colors.
Key display features include:
- LTPO OLED Always-On Retina display
- 1000 nits brightness
- Force Touch
The display uses Ion-X strengthened glass for protection. This helps prevent scratches and minor impacts.
You’ll enjoy clear visibility in various lighting conditions. The watch face remains readable even in bright sunlight. The Force Touch feature allows for additional input options by pressing firmly on the screen.
Technical Specifications
The Apple Watch SE (1st generation) offers a balance of performance and features. It provides capable processing power, adequate storage, and compatibility with recent iOS versions.
Processing Power
The Apple Watch SE (1st generation) is equipped with the S5 dual-core processor. This chip delivers snappy performance for daily tasks and app launches. It handles fitness tracking, notifications, and basic apps with ease.
The S5 chip allows for smooth scrolling and responsive touch interactions. It supports features like fall detection and noise monitoring. While not as powerful as newer models, it’s sufficient for most users’ needs.
Storage Capacity
The Apple Watch SE (1st generation) comes with 32GB of internal storage. This capacity allows you to store music, podcasts, and apps directly on the watch.
You can sync playlists from your iPhone for offline listening. The 32GB is enough for hundreds of songs and numerous apps. It’s ample space for most users’ daily needs.
| Storage Type | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Internal | 32GB |
Operating System and Compatibility
The Apple Watch SE (1st generation) originally shipped with watchOS 7. It’s compatible with newer versions, including watchOS 8 and 9. This ensures access to the latest features and security updates.
To use the Apple Watch SE, you need an iPhone 6s or later running iOS 14 or newer. It’s compatible with iOS 17, keeping it current with recent iPhone models.
The watch supports popular apps and integrates seamlessly with Apple services. You can use it for fitness tracking, mobile payments, and communication.
Features and Sensors
The Apple Watch SE (1st generation) offers a range of health tools, navigation capabilities, and connectivity options. It balances essential features with affordability, making it a popular choice for many users.
Health and Wellness Tools
The Apple Watch SE (1st generation) includes several health monitoring features. It has a second-generation optical heart sensor that tracks your heart rate throughout the day. This sensor helps you stay informed about your cardiovascular health.
The watch also includes an accelerometer and gyroscope. These sensors enable fall detection, a safety feature that can automatically call emergency services if you take a hard fall and don’t respond.
You can track various workouts with the built-in Workout app. It supports activities like running, cycling, swimming, and yoga. The watch calculates calories burned and monitors your daily activity levels.
Sleep tracking is another useful feature. It helps you establish a bedtime routine and tracks your sleep duration. This data can help you improve your sleep habits over time.
Navigation and Environmental Sensors
The Apple Watch SE (1st generation) includes GPS for accurate location tracking. This feature is useful for mapping your runs or finding directions without your phone.
An always-on altimeter measures your current elevation. It’s great for hikers or those who enjoy outdoor activities. The altimeter can track flights of stairs climbed as part of your daily activity.
While it lacks a built-in compass, the watch can still provide basic navigation through its GPS functionality. This allows you to find your way in unfamiliar areas using map apps.
The watch is water-resistant up to 50 meters. You can wear it while swimming or in the shower without worry. However, it’s not suitable for scuba diving or high-velocity water sports.
Connectivity Options
The Apple Watch SE (1st generation) comes in two main variants: GPS and GPS + Cellular. The GPS model requires your iPhone to be nearby for full functionality. The cellular model allows you to make calls, send texts, and stream music without your iPhone.
Both versions feature Bluetooth 5.0 for connecting to wireless accessories like headphones. Wi-Fi is also included for faster data transfer when in range of a known network.
The watch supports Apple Wallet, allowing you to make contactless payments using Apple Pay. This feature is handy for quick purchases without needing your phone or wallet.
| Connectivity Feature | GPS Model | GPS + Cellular Model |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth 5.0 | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Cellular | No | Yes |
| Apple Wallet | Yes | Yes |
These connectivity options make the Apple Watch SE (1st generation) a versatile device for staying connected on the go.
Pricing and Availability
The Apple Watch SE 1st generation offers an affordable entry point into the Apple Watch ecosystem. It’s available in three aluminum case colors: Space Gray, Silver, and Gold.
Pricing for the Apple Watch SE 1st gen starts at $279 for the 40mm GPS model. The 44mm GPS version costs $309. For cellular connectivity, add $50 to each price.
Here’s a quick pricing breakdown:
| Model | 40mm | 44mm |
|---|---|---|
| GPS | $279 | $309 |
| GPS + Cellular | $329 | $359 |
You can purchase the Apple Watch SE 1st gen through the Apple Store website or at physical Apple retail locations. Many third-party retailers also stock this model.
Apple offers various band options to customize your watch. These include Solo Loop, Sport Band, and Sport Loop styles. Band prices range from $49 to $99 depending on the material and design.
Monthly installment plans are available if you prefer to spread out the cost. With Apple Card Monthly Installments, you can pay for your watch over 24 months with 0% APR.
Keep in mind that availability may vary based on your location and chosen configuration. Check the Apple website or contact your local Apple Store for the most up-to-date stock information.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Apple Watch SE 1st Gen offers many features at a more affordable price point than other models. Let’s address some common questions about this popular smartwatch.
What are the main differences between the Apple Watch SE 1st Gen and the 2nd Gen?
The 1st Gen Apple Watch SE lacks some features found in the 2nd Gen. These include the newer S8 chip, Crash Detection, and international emergency calling. The 2nd Gen also has a 20% faster processor.
Both models share many core functions. These include heart rate monitoring, fall detection, and water resistance up to 50 meters.
What is the price range for the Apple Watch SE 1st Gen?
The Apple Watch SE 1st Gen typically costs between $175 and $250. Prices vary based on size, band type, and whether you choose GPS-only or GPS + Cellular models.
Refurbished units may be available at lower prices. New models might have higher prices at some retailers.
How can you determine whether you have a 1st Gen or 2nd Gen Apple Watch SE?
Check your watch’s model number in Settings. Go to General > About > Model. The 1st Gen SE model numbers start with A2351, A2352, or A2353.
You can also look at the box or receipt if you still have them. The release date is another clue – the 1st Gen came out in 2020.
In what sizes is the Apple Watch SE 1st Gen available?
The Apple Watch SE 1st Gen comes in two sizes:
- 40mm
- 44mm
These measurements refer to the height of the watch case. Choose based on your wrist size and screen preference.
Which devices are compatible with the Apple Watch SE 1st Gen?
The Apple Watch SE 1st Gen works with iPhone 6s or later. Your iPhone must run iOS 14 or newer.
It’s not compatible with Android phones. You need an Apple ID and iCloud account to use all features.
Has the Apple Watch SE 1st Gen been discontinued?
Yes, Apple has discontinued the 1st Gen SE. They replaced it with the 2nd Gen model in September 2022.
You can still find the 1st Gen at some retailers and refurbished marketplaces. Apple no longer sells new units directly.
| Feature | Apple Watch SE 1st Gen | Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | S5 chip | S8 chip (20% faster) |
| Crash Detection | No | Yes |
| International Emergency Calling | No | Yes (Cellular model) |
| Release Year | 2020 | 2022 |
| Price Range | $175-$250 | $249-$299 |
